In the latest off-field incident to hit the Georgia football program, Bulldogs safety Ja'Marley Riddle was arrested last Friday in Glynn County on felony drug charges and a speeding citation. According to a police report obtained by WGIG 98.7 FM, the 19-year-old transfer from East Carolina faces two felony counts: possession of more than one ounce of marijuana and possession of a Schedule I controlled substance, along with a misdemeanor speeding charge. He has since posted bond for all three offenses.
The arrest adds to a growing list of off-field distractions for the reigning powerhouse program. A university spokesperson confirmed to 247Sports affiliate Dawgs247 that they are "actively gathering additional information" but declined further comment, citing the ongoing legal matter.
The incident unfolded on Interstate 95, where an undercover detective reported spotting a red Dodge Durango "traveling at a high rate of speed" and weaving through traffic. The officer noted that his own patrol vehicle was moving at approximately 95 mph, yet the Durango continued to pull away. During the traffic stop, authorities observed Riddle appearing visibly nervous and shaking. An officer detected the odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle and requested Riddle step out.
After consenting to a search of the SUV, police discovered a heat-sealed bag inside a backpack in the back seat, containing packaging labeled as marijuana and vape products marked with THC, according to the report.
Riddle joined the Bulldogs this offseason after a stellar two-year stint at East Carolina, where he earned first-team All-AAC honors in 2025. Over that span, the safety racked up more than 130 tackles and six interceptions, showcasing the playmaking ability that made him a coveted transfer. He was expected to compete for significant playing time in Georgia's secondary this season, though he was limited during spring practice while recovering from a leg injury.
As the legal process unfolds, the Georgia program will look to maintain focus on the field while addressing this latest challenge off it.